THE SDLP’s Mark H Durkan has welcomed the Department of Health’s publication of a cross departmental interim autism strategy for 2021 and 2022.
Mr Durkan said improved provisions and support for autistic people and their carers must be a priority, including addressing the ever-increasing waiting lists for assessment.
In response to an Assembly question from Mr Durkan the Department confirmed that currently, over 4,495 children are waiting for an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment in Northern Ireland.
Said the Foyle MLA: “I welcome the publication of a vital interim autism strategy, to create an informed and better understanding of the challenges facing individuals with autism and their families.
“This is undoubtedly a necessary piece of work and a step in the right direction.
“However, it is clear that autism services across the North are at breaking point – the figures from the Department of Health relating to ASD assessment waiting lists for children, are testament to a system in chaos.
“In the Western Trust area alone, there are currently 1,085 patients on the waiting list; 527 of which have been waiting in excess of a year for assessment.
“That is 1,085 children struggling in a class of their peers, frustrated with the added turmoil of lockdown, left without the additional support they desperately need.
“That is 1,085 families battling for answers, trying their utmost to secure assistance for their child. The system has failed each and every one of them.
“Last year, I wrote to the Health Minister calling for increased investment in autism services, in part to navigate the impact of the pandemic.
“This is an area marred by historic underinvestment, funding thus far has failed to match the increase in demand, year on year, for autism support and services.
“These staggering figures are in part borne out of the pandemic, compounding already dire waiting lists.
“It is unconscionable that children and their parents are living with uncertainty, without an ASD statement and more importantly without critical support.
“Particularly this year which for many families of children with autism or awaiting diagnosis, the impact of lockdown has hit harder.
“Not having that crucial diagnosis or the assistance that comes with it, is distressing in itself but now their chance of getting that diagnosis has been pushed even further down the road.
“It is imperative that areas of underinvestment such as in autism services are redressed by the Executive.
“We need to create a fit for purpose system, a system of understanding that meets the needs of autistic individuals and their families to cope with the repercussions of Covid-19 and beyond.
“That begins with early diagnosis.
“No child should be neglected on colossal waiting lists, fighting for support to which they are entitled,” added Mr Durkan.
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